Bucs Run Game Shines In Loss; Unexpected Depth Found in Backfield?

The biggest note of improvement when Liam Coen stepped into the offensive coordinator role for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers this offseason was solving a woeful run game.

Through two games, it appears the Bucs have taken a significant step forward in that area. Tampa Bay fell short in a 20-7 loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars, but the rushing attack impressed once again.

The team combined for 76 yards on 16 carries, good for 4.7 yards per carry. The overall total falls short of the 136 mark they reached against the Cincinnati Bengals, but nonetheless demonstrates a positive shift.

As seen a week ago, the catalysts of the ground game success were rookie Bucky Irving and Sean Tucker. Irving displayed his shifty style in his limited work while Tucker made the highlight play when he leaked out for a big gain.

Of course, the Bucs' offensive line deserves its due for that success. Irving and Tucker were provided the gaps to showcase their abilities in the scheme.

But through two preseason games, Tampa Bay has not only shown the run game is at a different spot than it was a year ago, but also put on display considerable backfield depth.

To some degree, this is unexpected ... but certainly welcome.

Related: Bucs Rookie Elijah Klein in Line to Start?

In the shared action through the preseason, each has made a claim for being the most productive player on the field. Those reps have come against teams' second and third units, but have set the table for a now intriguing return of the Tampa Bay starters.

None of the two will supplant Rachaad White as the Bucs' starter. But the next step of progress for the revamped run game will be incorporating the starters in this offense.

White may step into a situation not only more beneficial for his prospects but also one where he has a dependable reserve that can take some of the load off his shoulders this season.